Ashford Park School Council

 

What is School Council?

 

The A+ Education Reform Act of 2000 established school councils in Georgia to bring

communities and schools closer together in a spirit of cooperation to solve difficult education problems, improve academic achievement, provide support for teachers and administrators, and bring parents into the school-based decision-making process. School Councils provide advice, recommendations, and assistance to Principals and local Boards of Education. The law details the composition of the Council, it’s responsibilities, and it’s procedures for conducting business.

 

School Councils are comprised of a minimum of seven council members:

• The Principal

• At least two certificated teachers elected by the teachers

• A number of parents (or guardians) elected by the parents, so that parents (or guardians)

make up a majority of the council. At least 2 parents must be businesspersons

• Other members as specified in the council's bylaws

 

All members of the School Council must:

• Maintain a school-wide perspective on issues,

• Regularly participate in council meetings,

• Participate in information and training programs,

• Act as a link between the school council and the community,

• Encourage the participation of parents and others within the school community, and

• Work to improve student achievement and performance.

 

School councils are advisory bodies. They may provide advice and recommendations to the

School Principal and local Board of Education on any matter, including but not limited to:

• School board policies

• School improvement plans

• Curriculum and assessments

• Report cards issued and audits of the school conducted by the Office of Education

Accountability

• Development of a school profile to the community

• School budget priorities, including school capital improvement plans

• School-community communication strategies

• Methods of involving parents and the community

• Extra-curricular activities

• School-based and community services

• Community use of the school facility

• Student discipline and attendance

• Reports regarding progress toward meeting the school's student achievement goals

• Methods and specifications for the delivery of early intervention services or other appropriate services for underachieving students

 

For more information regarding School Council’s in Georgia please visit http://

georgiaeducation.org/councils/councils.html